What is rigging in the context of animation?

In the context of animation, rigging refers specifically to the creation of controls that allow animators to manipulate characters and objects more easily. This process involves setting up a skeletal structure, much like the framework of bones in a living creature, which animators can then use to pose and animate the character in a more efficient and manageable way. By establishing this system of joints, bones, and control points, animators can create fluid movements and seamless transitions, making the animation process far more intuitive and effective.

The other options touch on different aspects of animation but do not accurately define rigging. For example, while animating a character does involve rigging, it refers more to the execution of movement rather than the setup of controllable elements. The design of 2D animations involves the visual appearance and artistic elements but does not relate to the structural setup provided by rigging. Editing existing animations focuses on refining already completed sequences, which is a distinct process separate from the foundational work that rigging represents.